Month: August 2016

Understanding the littlest substances in our body can impact the major functions in the human body system. An abundant dietary mineral and a primary electrolyte, magnesium facilitates greater than three hundred bodily processes plus it controls numerous enzymatic functions. Among its indispensable roles are the following, but may not be limited to:

Maintaining fluid balance

Providing energy to cells by interfering in the cellular pathway that creates energy called adenosine triphosphate or ATP

Activating creatine

Enhancing sleep quality

Sustaining exercise as it partakes in certain mechanisms leading to muscle contractions

Synthesizing proteins, DNA, RNA, and glutathione

Optimizing nerve function

Regulating glucose level circulating in the blood as well as insulin

Controlling blood pressure

Affecting neurotransmitters which regulate mood and signal pain

Having a role in gut motility and has effects on the acid levels in the stomach

What is most thought-provoking and attention-grabbing in magnesium is its ability to stimulate the synthesis of proteins involved in testosterone production and to free up this anabolic hormone and begin its functions. First, we need to learn what is testosterone and its role in human health. Testosterone, as introduced, is an anabolic hormone, meaning it has a positive influence in maintaining the integrity at the same time preventing the breakdown of muscles. Furthermore, it activates satellite cells that converts into myoblast cells and ultimately generates muscle fibers. Lastly, it appears that testosterone can also stop fat synthesis. Improve fat loss by customizing your diet plans. Now we see how testosterone is crucial especially to those who want to stay fit and build more muscles.

To better appreciate how magnesium increases bioavailable testosterone in the body, I will give you the whole picture how the mechanisms work. Inside the human body, the circulating testosterone may be found in one of the two forms – bound and unbound. The former is bound to one of the proteins namely, sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) or albumin. These two proteins help the inactive testosterone be transported throughout the body. At this time, testosterone still do not exert effects upon the body. The latter is the free testosterone unbound to any protein and is biologically active. SHBG binds your testosterone and inactivates it from inducing performance-enhancing effects. Albumin also binds to testosterone but it’s much more “lenient” than the SHBG. So how can magnesium increase your T levels? The magnesium ions can trigger the release of testosterone bound to SHBG. The mineral inhibits SHBG and frees the bound testosterone making it available for the tissues and receptors.

Approximately, a gram of magnesium is sufficient to begin seeing an increase in your free T levels by 24% as studies would suggest. Of course, you need to do this in combination with intense exercise. Natural, reliable dietary sources of magnesium include green, leafy vegetables, nuts, raw cacao products, legumes, beans, unprocessed salts, and animal tissue. Magnesium evaporates quickly from the body through sweating. So if you are on intense exercise, you need to supplement your magnesium requirement. Be careful though as the absorption of magnesium varies on how much your body needs. Maintain your supplementation to an upper intake limit of 350mg per day to avoid experiencing adverse effects like nausea and vomiting.

DEFINITION
As the name implies, Deep Tissue Massage or DTM is a kind of massage therapy which targets the manipulation and realignment of the deepest layers of tissues in our body. Normally, an individual who receives a deep tissue massage lays flat on his stomach or back. A well-trained massage therapist performs DTM with slower, firmer strokes applying more pressure and for a longer duration to allow the warming up and relaxation of body tissues. Unlike other massage therapies, deep tissue massage uses a “cross-grain” technique where the therapist moves against the muscle fibers to achieve desired outcome. Certain body sections, primarily the major muscle groups which are prone to muscle tension, injuries, and straining, such as the lower back, neck, including the joints, tendons, and fascia are the main focus of DTM.

PURPOSE
DTM employs both corrective and therapeutic methods in order to address concerns involving our bodies. It aims to speed up the body’s capacity to heal itself. Overall, the goal of DTM may be summarized in a few but major points. DTM lengthens and releases the “knotted” muscle fibers. Once these tissues are loosened, toxins are released from the muscles and adequate blood and oxygen circulation starts to kick in.

BENEFITSTreatment of chronic back pain
When muscles adhere to each other, it causes pain as the adhesions impede blood circulation and limit natural movement. The inflammation and pain may be relieved when muscles are deeply massaged to allow blood to flow throughout the body. Improved blood flow means decreased inflammation. Loosened tissue knots mean reduced pain.

Decreased blood pressure
Studies found that deep tissue massage has helpful effects when it comes to systolic and diastolic readings of blood pressure. It alleviates pain and other symptoms brought about by high blood pressure.

Reduction of stress, anxiety, and muscle tension
Stress and tension relief can state the overall health of a person. This type of massage was seen to aid in the production of hormones like serotonin which promotes feelings of happiness and oxytocin which soothes and promotes relaxation of the body. To naturally have a positive mindset towards situations, read The 67 Steps. In addition, DTM lowers cortisol levels, the stress hormone.

Breaking up of scar tissue
When DTM therapy has been undergone for quite some time, it can eventually break up scar tissue in the body. This can happen when the lymphatic circulation and drainage have already improved in the area surrounding the damaged tissue, thus, improving range of motion and flexibility among affected individuals.

TIPS
• Prior to receiving your deep tissue massage, avoid consumption of heavy meal.
• Discomfort and pain is a normal experience during DTM and may subside after a day or two. The massage therapist may suggest application of ice compress to painful areas.
• No strenuous activities after the massage.
• Stretching may be helpful after receiving DTM to prevent muscle pain.
• It is advisable that you drink plenty of water after the massage to flush out toxins released from the muscles. This also hydrates your muscles.

HEALTHY REMINDER
Deep tissue massage, like any other massages, is not for everyone. Consult your doctor first before directly visiting your massage therapist especially if you have an existing injury, a fracture, post-surgical wound, or if you are pregnant.